KELLY College in Tavistock has entered discussions with St Dunstan's School in Plymouth over a proposed merger.

Chairman of governors at Kelly, David Milford, said management at both schools had approved the principle of partnership, which would assure the future of St Dunstan's in Plymouth. Details of the partnership are still under discussion.

Mr Milford said: 'We look forward to a positive, mutually beneficial relationship with St Dunstan's.'

Mark Steed, Kelly headmaster, said the deal was in its early stages, but he hoped the partnership would boost the strengths of both schools, while retaining their individual identities.